"To most jazz critics I was basically Kenny G"

Herbie Mann was an American jazz flutist and author who was active in allure scene from the 1950s to the 1970s. In this quote, Mann is revealing his frustration with how he was perceived by jazz critics. He felt that he was typically neglected and dismissed as a simple copycat of Kenny G, a popular contemporary jazz saxophonist. Mann was an extremely appreciated musician in his own right, and he felt that the critics were not giving him the acknowledgment he was worthy of. He was a leader in allure world, and he was among the first to incorporate aspects of Latin and African music into his structures. He was also a master of improvisation, and he was known for his capability to produce unique and innovative sounds. Despite his achievements, Mann felt that he was typically overlooked and dismissed as a simple copycat of Kenny G.